The AKS Futures Fair on Wednesday 19th November 2025 provided an invaluable opportunity for students and parents to explore a wide range of pathways for life after school. The event, hosted at AKS, brought together representatives from universities, apprenticeship providers and employers alongside expert talks designed to help students make informed decisions about their futures.
The evening opened with a series of engaging presentations in the Library and Sixth Form Common Room, beginning with an Introduction to Oxbridge. Nick O’Loughlin, AKS Oxbridge Coordinator, explored what Oxford and Cambridge offer, how joining AKS Sixth Form provides dedicated support for aspiring applicants and how the academic enrichment programme at AKS strengthens Oxbridge applications.
This was followed by a session from Kevin Maund, Head of Sixth Form, who outlined the distinctive experience offered at AKS Sixth Form. He highlighted tailored teaching and learning across a wide range of A level subjects, the freedom to study in a style similar to university, the PEAKS Plus character education and future skills programme, guidance with UCAS applications, the depth and breadth of the co-curricular programme, extensive student leadership opportunities and the vibrant social life full of activities and trips. Guests also heard from a panel of Sixth Form students who shared their unique perspective on life and opportunities at AKS.
Scott Collings, AKS UCAS Coordinator, delivered an insightful session on the new 2027 UCAS application process and the support available to help AKS students navigate their choices and secure university offers.
Tom Whittaker from The University Guy also outlined the support available for students exploring, preparing for and applying to universities worldwide.
Meanwhile, the OAKS Hall buzzed with activity as exhibitors from more than 20 organisations met with students and families. These included universities and employers offering apprenticeships such as:
· AKS Sixth Form
· ARMY
· BAE Systems
· Bangor University
· Business and Hotel Management School
· Blackpool and Fylde College
· Blackpool Degree Apprenticeships
· CJK Drones
· Fleetwood Nautical College
· Fylde Borough Council
· Lancaster University
· Manchester Metropolitan University
· Mahoney Contracts
· Myerscough College and University
· Napthens Solicitors
· Queen’s University Belfast
· RAF
· Springfields Fuel Ltd Westinghouse
· The University Guy
· Victrex
The AKS Futures Fair not only showcased the wide range of opportunities open to students but also highlighted the recently awarded Significant Strength from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), recognising the AKS Careers Programme as exceptional. Inspectors have praised the precisely planned careers curriculum, the personalised advice offered and the meaningful professional encounters and work experience that help students make informed choices about their futures.
Zoe Uphill, Head of Careers at AKS and lead organiser of the event, shared:
“The Futures Fair at AKS forms part of the careers programme for our students which offers meaningful encounters with a wide range of professionals and personalised advice that grows with each student’s interests. It is a privilege to help students take their next steps with clarity, confidence and aspiration.”